Upcycling Last Fall’s Wardrobe

Upcycling is one of fashion’s biggest trends. Think back to when you were a kid, and your imagination ran wild. A sheet set was way more than bedding, and towels made the best capes. We’ve been repurposing and upcycling before we even knew what it was. Take it back to your childhood this season. The changing seasons are a great time to give old items new life, especially for your fall wardrobe. How exactly do you upcycle old clothing, and why even bother? Create more opportunities for your wardrobe by upcycling your clothing.

Upcycling Tips for Your Fall Wardrobe and Beyond:

• Add linings to worn jackets or other items that are well-loved or out of style.
• Reimagine the pieces you already own. Upcycling doesn’t need to be rocket science. Try styling the same piece differently, whether that’s by layering or seeing it in a new way.
• Add trims like appliques, pom-poms, or fringe to a sweater or other clothing pieces.
• Change the color of any plain clothing pieces by adding a little (or a lot of) dye to change the look.
• Upcycling doesn’t just have to apply to clothing. Take an old scarf, and add it to a table to accent it, or use an old blanket to create a shawl.
• Style key pieces with old items for an easy way to continue wearing pieces from seasons past.
• Visible mending is a trendy and new way to upcycle that works for those that sew and even those that don’t. It’s cool to be sustainable, and a visibly repaired piece is a conversation starter. Your fashion can be as unique as you are. Try mending different fabrics together and add visual appeal by using contrasting threads you already own.
• Take old clothing and turn it into accessories like old denim shorts. I see a perfect purse and wallet combo in your future.
• Use your fabric stash to make an otherwise boring piece into something you’re excited about.
• Participate in upcycling programs or make sure unwanted items get to a friend or a secondhand location since upcycling isn’t the only option.

Using what you own creates less waste but also saves money and time. There’s no need to create or buy a new garment when you have a whole closet (and home) full of pieces just waiting to be reinvented. I love stretching my dollar and helping the planet. If I can do both while looking fashionable, I call that a win-win.

Have you tried upcycling lately? Leave a comment below with your upcycling creations and ideas.